On this occasion, we draw attention to an ultralight yet challenging-to-handle powder that ensures the conductivity of modern batteries: Carbon Black or Industrial Carbon. To efficiently supply this powder, Greif-Velox offers a unique solution.
In 1800, Italian physicist Alessandro Volta introduced the first functional galvanic element in the form of the so-called Voltaic Pile, which is now considered a precursor to the modern battery. In honor of Volta, his birthday, February 18th, was designated as the International Battery Day.
Rising Demand for Lithium-Ion Batteries
From electric vehicles to renewable energy storage solutions and portable electronic devices, today’s lithium-ion battery technology has become indispensable in many areas, more than 200 years later. The number of lithium-ion batteries used in most electric cars in Germany alone has more than doubled since 2017. By 2030, global demand for rechargeable batteries is projected to reach 1,745 gigawatt-hours according to Statista.
The Carbon Black Market is Booming
The increasing demand for high-quality Carbon Black is reflected in the booming industry. Carbon Black, as a conductive additive, is one of the key components for the production of pastes for high-performance lithium-ion batteries. Together with polymer binders, solvents, and other conductive additives, a homogeneous mixture is formed, ensuring efficient current flow throughout the battery charging cycle. These properties make the ultralight powder highly desirable. According to FactMR, the global Carbon Black market, which was valued at $26.2 billion in 2023, is expected to grow to $46.9 billion by 2033 with an annual growth rate of 6 percent.
Benefits of Carbon Black in Battery Pastes
- The use of Carbon Black in pastes leads to improved battery performance
- Faster charging times
- Longer battery life
- Higher power output over an extended period
- Reduced internal resistance
Manufacturing of Carbon Black/Industrial Carbon
Carbon Black is produced by burning petroleum products in specialized high-temperature furnaces. This combustion occurs under controlled conditions, resulting in tiny carbon particles. The particles are then collected, cleaned, and subjected to further processing steps to achieve the desired fineness and conductivity. The production of Carbon Black requires precise process control and state-of-the-art technology to ensure a product of high quality and consistency.
Challenges in Handling Carbon Black
Due to its ultrafine particle size and low bulk density, conductive industrial carbon is difficult to handle and package. For comparison, a human hair is about 900 times thicker than the tiny particles with a diameter of 60 to 110 nanometers. Conventional methods result in high cleaning costs and pose a risk to employees as they are exposed to emissions. Irregularly shaped bags with air pockets also increase logistics and transportation costs.
Benefits of Greif-Velox VeloVac Vacuum Packers
Greif-Velox has responded to these challenges by developing the VeloVac vacuum packers, a system that offers several advantages in packaging ultralight powders:
- 100 percent dust-free filling process thanks to filling in a completely sealed vacuum chamber
- Up to 75 percent cost savings in storage and logistics due to maximized product compaction
- No cleaning costs due to contaminations
- High efficiency and process reliability
